Frequently Asked Questions for High Die Cutting
Can ECS make square envelopes and special sizes?
Yes, ECS can create a wide variety of special sizes and square envelopes! If you don't see what you are looking for on our die list, please call for layout sheet size and price.
Does ECS stock any ready made envelopes?
ECS is a custom manufacturer. We do not stock any ready made envelopes. In 14 working days or less we can make your special order - blank envelopes, windows or regulars from our stock of 24 lb. white wove or blue inside tint stock. See Section D of this Price Schedule.
What is "High Die" cutting?
High die cutting uses a 3" high large steel die to cut a lift of stock 150 to 200 sheets at one time. Because of the draw of the die as it travels through the lift, the cutting register can vary 1/16" in any direction. This is within Industry Standards. Bleeds must wrap 1/8" over the fold lines. Borders must be 1/4" away from the fold lines. Due to die cutting requirements, the sheet size and position on the sheet must follow the layout template. (Please see our high die sheet size guide.)
PREFERRED PAPER WEIGHT/GRAIN DIRECTION
What weight of stock can I use?
The caliper of the stock must be between .0045 and .0068 for standard sizes and between .005 and .0085 for open-end catalog and large open-side booklet sizes.
Why is the grain direction of the stock important?
Grain wrong stock curls up into the machinery causing jams, wasted stock and folding registration problems.
What if my stock is "grain wrong?"
We can change the settings on the machine and still run "grain wrong" stock. The set-up charge for "grain wrong" is $100.00 for standard sizes and $125.00 for open-end catalogs and large open-side booklets. You should also provide an additional over run for set-up and waste.
How much stock is needed for set-up and waste?
An over run is required for set-up and waste in the converting process. The minimum for standard sizes is 300 or 10%; whichever is greater of the finished envelope count. For open-end catalogs and large open-side booklets, allow a minimum of 400 or 10%.
Is full outside or inside ink coverage on the stock a problem?
Full ink coverage requires NO ink or varnish in glue and gum areas. Adhesion is NOT GUARANTEED if ink or varnish is printed in those areas.
Can the converting process mark the stock?
The characteristics of certain stocks and/or inks may result in scuffing or cracking.
What information should I send with my job?
Provide a blue line or sample with your purchase order which should specify the ECS die number or exact size for special envelopes, the quantity, over run and samples needed, and shipping instructions.
How long will it take to produce my job?
Our normal production time for most jobs is 7 to 14 days after the stock arrives here. Open-end catalogs and large open-side booklets can take 7 to 14 days. For RUSH ORDERS, please call in advance to schedule and for quotes on rush charges that may apply.
My question isn't answered here. What do I do now?
If you have other questions not answered here, please contact us your questions.
IMPORTANT STUFF!
Can ECS make square envelopes and special sizes?
Yes, ECS can create a wide variety of special sizes and square envelopes! If you don't see what you are looking for on our die list, please call for layout sheet size and price.
Does ECS stock any ready made envelopes?
ECS is a custom manufacturer. We do not stock any ready made envelopes. In 14 working days or less we can make your special order - blank envelopes, windows or regulars from our stock of 24 lb. white wove or blue inside tint stock. See Section D of this Price Schedule.
What is "High Die" cutting?
High die cutting uses a 3" high large steel die to cut a lift of stock 150 to 200 sheets at one time. Because of the draw of the die as it travels through the lift, the cutting register can vary 1/16" in any direction. This is within Industry Standards. Bleeds must wrap 1/8" over the fold lines. Borders must be 1/4" away from the fold lines. Due to die cutting requirements, the sheet size and position on the sheet must follow the layout template. (Please see our high die sheet size guide.)
PREFERRED PAPER WEIGHT/GRAIN DIRECTION
What weight of stock can I use?
The caliper of the stock must be between .0045 and .0068 for standard sizes and between .005 and .0085 for open-end catalog and large open-side booklet sizes.
Why is the grain direction of the stock important?
Grain wrong stock curls up into the machinery causing jams, wasted stock and folding registration problems.
What if my stock is "grain wrong?"
We can change the settings on the machine and still run "grain wrong" stock. The set-up charge for "grain wrong" is $100.00 for standard sizes and $125.00 for open-end catalogs and large open-side booklets. You should also provide an additional over run for set-up and waste.
How much stock is needed for set-up and waste?
An over run is required for set-up and waste in the converting process. The minimum for standard sizes is 300 or 10%; whichever is greater of the finished envelope count. For open-end catalogs and large open-side booklets, allow a minimum of 400 or 10%.
Is full outside or inside ink coverage on the stock a problem?
Full ink coverage requires NO ink or varnish in glue and gum areas. Adhesion is NOT GUARANTEED if ink or varnish is printed in those areas.
Can the converting process mark the stock?
The characteristics of certain stocks and/or inks may result in scuffing or cracking.
What information should I send with my job?
Provide a blue line or sample with your purchase order which should specify the ECS die number or exact size for special envelopes, the quantity, over run and samples needed, and shipping instructions.
How long will it take to produce my job?
Our normal production time for most jobs is 7 to 14 days after the stock arrives here. Open-end catalogs and large open-side booklets can take 7 to 14 days. For RUSH ORDERS, please call in advance to schedule and for quotes on rush charges that may apply.
My question isn't answered here. What do I do now?
If you have other questions not answered here, please contact us your questions.
IMPORTANT STUFF!
- High Die Cutting requires that the sheet size and position on the sheet follow the layout template exactly.
- Best stock weights are 60# to 80# Text with caliper between .045 and .0068 for Standard sizes and .005 to .0085 for Open End Catalog and Large Open Side Booklet sizes.
- Grain direction must follow the instructions on the layout template. A grain wrong set-up charge of $100.00 for Standard sizes will apply. For Open End Catalog and Large Open Side Booklet, it's $100.00.
- An over run for setup and waste is required. The minimum for Standard sizes is 300 or 10%, whichever is greater of the finished count. Allow 500 or 10% for Open End Catalog and Large Open Side Booklet sizes.
- Refer to High Die Job Checklist for more instructions